Summary:
Production models of a USDA-developed aerial electrostatic spray application system
are currently being marketed in the US. Spray deposit and insect mortality studies
conducted on cotton with the USDA prototype are summarized. Spray deposits with
the electrostatic system were higher than with conventional aerial application systems.
The increased deposits with the electrostatic system did not always produce improved
insect control. Generally, the aerial electrostatic system with a spray rate of 9.4 L/ha
provided similar insect control in these studies as conventional aerial spray systems
with spray rates of 46.8 L/ha or aerial ULV spray systems with spray rates of 1 L/ha.
Lower spray rates contribute to improved operational efficiencies for aerial applicators.

Keywords:
Aerial Sprays, Aircraft, Nozzles, Electrostatic, Spray, Droplets, agricultural chemicals

The author is solely responsible for the content of this technical presentation. The technical
presentation does not necessarily reflect the official position of ASAE, and its printing and
distribution does not constitute an endorsement of views which may be expressed. The
authors are: I. W. Kirk and W. C. Hoffmann, Agricultural Engineers and J. B. Carlton,
Agricultural Engineer (Retired), Areawide Pest Management Research Unit, Southern Plains
Agricultural Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, U. S. Department of Agriculture,
2771 F&B Rd., College Station, TX 77845-4966 USA.

Technical presentations are not subject to the formal peer review process by ASAE editorial
committees; therefore they are not to be presented as refereed publications. Quotation from
this work should be as follows: Kirk, I. W., W. C. Hoffmann, and J. B. Carlton. "Aerial
Electrostatic Spray System Performance." Presented at the July 9-12, 2000, 93 rd Annual
International Meeting of ASAE, Milwaukee, WI, USA. Paper No. 001056. ASAE, 2950
Niles Rd., St. Joseph, MI 49085-9659 USA.

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